Grades 5–6
Memoir, NarrativeWritingKevin likes to play soccer, and he wants to be a good soccer player when he grows up. He lives with his brother and his parents. He is eleven years old and he is smart. He goes to school and lives in Washington, DC.
I was sitting on sand that felt like little rocks tickling my feet. I was eight years old and was in Ocean City, where the ocean was like a rusty car. I came to spend time with my family. I like to go to Ocean City because it is enjoyable, and I get to be with my family.
While we were there, I was worried about my dog because he was still a puppy, and it was the first time we let him stay at the house alone. I was scared that he would do something big that would hurt him badly. I did not tell my family my fears because I thought they would get worried and leave the beach, and I did not want to go.
My dad was watching me. He asked, “What’s wrong? You look sad.”
“Oh nothing, I’m just sleepy,” I said. But I couldn’t hold it in, so I said, “Nevermind. I’m sad because I’m worried that our dog will be hurt! He is still a puppy and it’s the first time we left him alone.”
My dad said, “Don’t worry, he is intelligent and knows how to protect himself. He will be okay.”
“How come you’re saying that it will be fine?” I asked.
“Remember I told you to bring the iPad?” Dad asked. “I brought it to see what our puppy is doing.”
“With the camera you put on the wall? Oh, I get it now,” I said. Dad is nice and friendly, and he always makes me happy like a wishing star.
I calmed down and did not worry too much. Then, we talked of other things and went swimming together in the ocean. I also made a puppy out of sand and took a picture of it for the memories of the beach that had made me so worried about my dog.
When we got back home I saw the little puppy snuggling on his blanket. He was okay, and I was happy that nothing happened to him.
I learned that when you tell your family things it can make you happier and calmer, and you’ll be free of any secrets or bad feelings you have.
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From 826DC, what if how you see yourself is not how the world sees you? Inspired by socially charged photojournalism and mentor texts that include Junot Diaz and Claudia Rankine, students spanning ages ten to sixteen tackle questions about who they are and the world they live in. Having to Tell Your Mother Is the Hardest Part is a collection of personal narratives that encompasses the fears, dreams, and hopes of young writers, ranging from concerns about immigration to soccer tournament victories to a community that unites after an earthquake to the story behind a name, as well as critical responses to the 2016 United States presidential election. Filled with joy and sadness, young writers reflect on the encounters between themselves and the world around them, musing over misunderstandings and broken connections, and parsing out the meaning of identity in a multicultural and multilingual world.
by Abdikabir, age 8, 826 MSP
This poem uses the 1st person point-of-view to show what life looks like for a timber rattlesnake.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Kevin, 826NYC
A wizened middle schooler offers the benefits of sixth grade to younger readers, sprinkling in a few tips to survive and thrive in their year ahead.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Natalie, 826CHI
A spirit named Janet haunts a dance studio as five young dancers arm themselves with a vacuum, a bottle, and the internet.
Rachel G., Grade 5, 826NYC
A young writer teaches us the value of learning about different cultures.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
by Noel, 826 Valencia
The creation story of a new school, reimagined to improve learning. (Paid for by Taylor Swift with free water bottles, an Italian restaurant, a movie theater, and a comfortable and safe environment.)
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games one night turned into a nightmare.
by Aanikaa Ramesh, Grade 5, Camas, WA
Embrace your inner power!
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Christian, 826michigan
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that sometimes the easiest way to make someone feel included is by lending a hand.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Amaya, 826michigan
A letter devoted to a favorite fruit that’s sweet and sour just like this student’s favorite candy: Sour Patch Kids!
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Yanni, 826NYC
This poem is written in the style of William Carlos Williams’ “This is Just to Say” and celebrates small acts of unapologetic joy.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
Mahera A., Age 12, 826CHI
What happens when the only thing two people have in common is their love for each other?
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Salimatou, Grade 5, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Brayan Luna, 826michigan
In this poem, a student vividly recounts watching The Undertaker perform a signature chokeslam on WrestleMania. Written in Spanish and English.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Connor, Grade 5, Los Angeles, CA
Come adventure and defeat evil with a picklemobile full of superheroes!
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Johny, 826 LA
A riveting interview with Godzilla, Superman, and Dragonbolt—a cast of characters that will try to outdo one another before this TV special is up.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
Nur Schlenker, age 10, 826 Valencia
Experience the sights and sounds of Halloween in this vivid poem.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by the Class of 640 at M.S. 88, 826NYC
This bilingual poem shares an excellent recipe for how to survive middle school.
by Alyssa, Kevin, Gustavo, Jocelyn, and Gabriel, 826LA
In science class, Victoria the Manticore makes fun of Carla the Witch for using magic, and a few bystanders step in to take a stand against bullying.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Selene Freudenberg, 826michigan
This hero’s journey leads an unlikely suspect into a land of books with a plot-disrupting villain who must be destroyed in order to save a multitude of characters, including Harry Potter!
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Luis, 826LA
A rap song dedicated to the Marvel comic writer Stan Lee and his inspired creations like the Hulk, Deadpool, Iron Man, and The Fantastic Four.
Sizwe H., Age 13, 826michigan
A poet appreciates their loyal riding partner.
Antonella Yoryor, Grade 6, San Francisco, CA
Meet Felice, the storytelling fox with a voice like the moon.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal—corgis!
by Kelis, 826michigan
This student describes what it would be like to become the first female president, campaigning on education for all, friendlier attitudes, more food and housing, and snow days!
Ms. Lowe’s Fourth Grade Class at Roberto Clemente Learning Academy in Detroit, Michigan
An example of a "Neighborhood Poem" created as a class as part of 826Michigan's Rare Air/Aire Raro Young Authors' Book Project.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Ana, 826DC
A student learns an important lesson about staying calm while recounting a trip to Olive Garden that spiraled out of control!
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Crystal Colorado, Age 12, 826 Valencia
This poem will take you to the beach and make you wonder if it was all a dream.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Nicky, Grade 6, Salt Lake City, UT
The pen is mightier than the sword!
by Benny, 826 Boston
Inspired by Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid, this piece contains a series of journal entries and rules for a new sport by fictitious NASA operative Agent Smitty.
by Makeia "Mason" Davis, Age 11, 826NYC
Not the Bacon Egg and Cheese Monster! This character profile brings a beloved breakfast sandwich to life in terrifying ways.
by Gabriella Mcclellan, Grade 5, 826michigan
This sci-fi piece shows the importance of talking things out with friends.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Ari, 826CHI
In the Realm of Virtues, a search for attention and significance teaches these characters an important lesson about what it means to be human!
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Mabel Murray-Rudegeair, Grade 6, Minneapolis, Minnesota
This personal essay shares about the joy that comes from dancing in the rain.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Zaid Rodriguez, 826 Valencia
This story immerses the reader in sensory details to tell the tale of what lies behind a mysterious door.
by Saeed, 826NYC
Food justice advocacy is reimagined by this student as an epic battle rages between Nutriman, Captain Nutritional, and Junkster in a school cafeteria!
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Kyle I., Grade 6, Kansas City, MO
A gender-fluid student's call to action to the next U.S. president to protect LGBTQIA+ rights.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Sahni Yokley-Wash, age 9, 826 Valencia
Will this story's brave hero be able to survive a frightening forest adventure?
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
Neveah H., Grade 5, 826NYC
Brooklyn is the place to be over the summer! A young writer reflects on how summertime cookouts bring family and community together.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Krisbel D.L.M., Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A letter to the next President asking them to support immigration laws that will allow them to see their family.
by Chelsea, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student passes on their favorite tips for having fun and surviving fifth grade.
by Nicole Torres, age 12, 6th grade, 826 Valencia
Because sometimes you just need to tune out the world.
by Stefany Moreira, Vivi Small, Ana Rosas, Eugenia Rosas, and Jason Carrillo, 826NYC
This poem describes a warmer, tastier world run by young people.
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by 826NYC students Ash Doliber, Sidney Edelson, Ella Holland, Mavis Lu, Justin Nemeroff, Bird Rzepniewski, and Isabella Wu
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Evelyn DiRocco, Grade 5, Andover, MA
Evil doesn't stand a chance against this young superhero.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Mady, 826 Valencia
A student examines the mermaid industry today through a historical lens that begins in the late-nineteenth century, turning fantasy into a profession.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Matthew, 826CHI
Originally written and recorded as a podcast, these two unlikely heroes and the technological crisis of year 3016 will have you gripping the edge of your seat!
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Ella H., Grade 6, 826DC
Settle in as this young storyteller spins a tale about Shady Street, where cats can talk and broccoli casserole helps solve conflicts.
by Jacob P., age 11, 826 LA
An iPad, a ghost, and an unexpected friendship.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Leslie, 826NYC
In this imaginative narrative about food justice, Golden Girl and LoLo go up against the evil Chemical Bug so kids everywhere can eat healthy fruits and vegetables.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by L.M., 826CHI
The story of a lonely ghost named Annabeth, a plan to kidnap children on Halloween, and an unlikely encounter that reveals the true nature of friendship.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Kelsey F., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
This poem shares an honest look at a big feeling: anxiety
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Chloe Moreno, Grade 6, 826 Valencia, San Francisco, CA
An ode to being unapologetically yourself!
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Juliana Anderson, Grade 6, 826 MSP
This action-packed sci-fi story will keep you on the edge of your seat!
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
A student describes their fuzzy imaginary friend.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Levi, 826NYC
An origin story for healthy food, involving an epic battle between purveyor of high-fructose corn syrup, Ronald McDonald, and a heroic band of chefs.
by Khari Garris, New York, NY
A student remembers what life was like before the COVID-19 pandemic, and imagines a brighter day when schools reopen.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Travis Cao, Age 8, 826 Valencia
This poem shows the importance of saying thank you to yourself!
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Vanessa, 826CHI
A story about a mermaid named Luna and the epic battle to save Benzo, a rainbow-colored kingdom, using the power of love.
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